HS Code for Wood screws

Wood screws are classified under HS code 7318.12 because they are specifically designed threaded fasteners made of iron or steel, intended for joining pieces of wood. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically GRI 1 and 6, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and subheadings. Heading 7318 covers screws, bolts, nuts, coach screws, screw hooks, rivets, cotters, cotter-pins, washers, and similar articles of iron or steel. Subheading 7318.12 is explicitly reserved for threaded wood screws, excluding coach screws. These fasteners are characterized by a tapered shank and a sharp, wide-pitched thread that allows them to grip wood fibers effectively. The material composition is a primary factor; if the screws were made of copper, they would fall under Chapter 74. However, for standard iron or steel wood screws, 7318.12 is the definitive classification. The distinction is also based on the absence of a nut, as wood screws are designed to create their own mating thread in the material, unlike bolts which typically require a pre-drilled hole and a nut.

Products Included

• Slotted head wood screws
• Cross-recessed (Phillips) wood screws
• Square drive (Robertson) wood screws
• Stainless steel wood screws for timber construction
• Zinc-plated steel wood screws
• Twinfast wood screws

Common Misclassification

Wood screws are frequently confused with coach screws, which are classified under HS code 7318.11. While both are used in wood, coach screws (also known as lag bolts) are typically much larger and have a hexagonal head designed to be turned with a wrench rather than a screwdriver. Another common error is using HS code 7318.14, which is reserved for self-tapping screws. Self-tapping screws are generally intended for use in metal or plastic and have a different thread geometry and hardness compared to standard wood screws. Additionally, general-purpose screws or bolts that do not have the specific tapered wood-thread design are classified under 7318.15.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Wood screws?

The HS code for threaded wood screws made of iron or steel is 7318.12.

How does 7318.12 differ from 7318.15?

HS code 7318.12 is specifically for screws with threads designed for wood, whereas 7318.15 is a residual category for other threaded screws and bolts, typically those used with nuts or in metal applications.